Policy Background and Purpose of the Trip Following the Japan-US agreement on US tariff measures, there is an urgent need to quickly understand the impact on Japan's rice exports. In light of this situation, Vice Minister Takinami of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries will directly visit local rice export-related businesses to understand specific impact situations and challenges through on-site exchanges. Niigata Prefecture was selected as an important survey target region where the impact of US tariff measures can be most accurately assessed, as it is Japan's largest rice-producing region and boasts top-class quality and production volume nationwide.
Specific Travel Schedule The trip will be conducted on Friday, August 22, 2025, with Vice Minister Hirofumi Takinami visiting rice export-related businesses in Niigata Prefecture for exchanges of views as the main survey activity. This trip is positioned as important information-gathering activity in the government's rice export policy and is scheduled to be directly utilized in formulating future export strategies to the United States.
Media Coverage and Reporting System Media coverage is possible for this trip, with detailed coverage guidelines established. Coverage requires following instructions from local personnel, with mandatory presentation of press cards and wearing of armbands. Flexible scheduling with time allowances is required due to potential changes in itinerary caused by local traffic conditions. Advance notice has been given regarding possible schedule changes due to circumstances, requiring flexible responses.
Ministry Organizational Response System Inquiries regarding this matter are handled by the General Affairs Division of the Export and International Affairs Bureau (Contact persons: Ito, Sasao, Kono), with main telephone 03-3502-8111 (extension 4270) and direct dial 03-3502-8274. This contact system is established to provide detailed information about the trip and respond quickly to questions from stakeholders, aiming for transparent information disclosure.
The article demonstrates the government's stance of seeking rapid and accurate policy responses to important international trade issues such as US tariff measures through on-site investigations, representing the government's proactive efforts toward protecting and developing the rice export industry.